A DISABLED Preston man, who has raised the equivalent of nearly £8 each day for the last seven years for charity, has been awarded a special accolade for his dedication.

Over the years Ray Kirkham, of Newlyn Place, Ingol, has amassed £20,000 for Preston's Mobility Centre, in Friargate, Preston.

From selling raffle tickets to collecting cash in pubs and shops remarkable Ray, 61, has done everything to raise cash for the good cause which provides easy access for elderly and disabled people.

The charity has paid tribute to Ray's dedication and hard work after Preston's mayor, Councillor Alan Hackett, unveiled a special plaque in his honour before presenting the charity champ with a certificate.

Preston Community Transport fundraising co-ordinator Denise Baker said: "Ray has done an exceptional job over the years which has made a considerable difference to the quality of our service.

"On behalf of the committee I'd like to congratulate him on this wonderful achievement."

The charity have spent the £20,000 on repairing and replacing wheelchairs and scooters for the Shopmobility service enabling more disabled people to get about with ease.

And Ray, who uses a scooter to help overcome his own disabilities, has no plans to stop his money-making for the charity.

Later this year he hopes to undertake a sponsored scooter run between Preston and Lancaster.

He said: "I would like to thank all the people who have donated money to the fundraising appeal, especially the users of the Mobility Centre disabled car park at Chapel Yard.

"Over the years the car park users have been very generous and I've made a lot of friends there."

Anyone who would like to help Ray on his next fundraising mission should contact the Mobility Centre on 204667.